The Dragonslayers

Introduction

by William H. Keith, jr.

Rating Code: J/K/U

The emblem of the Dragonslayers recognizes the unit's beginnings as lancers and honors its long history of combat service against House Kurita.

With this entry, Battle Technology continues its exclusive service to those of its readers who are themselves mercenary soldiers, Techs, or MechWarriors, describing and appraising a potential market for their services as mercenaries. In this case, the market is an independent BattleMech company currently in the employ of House Davion, now actively seeking replacements to make up losses recently suffered in battle.

As described in previous Hiring Hall columns, a three-letter code has been developed to rate each prospective employer reviewed by Battle Technology. These lettercodes, ranging from A (verygood) to Z (very bad) provide insight into possible advantages and disadvantages which must be weighed by mercenaries considering hiring themselves out to the employer in question.

The areas rated through this code are:

NEED: How frequently does the employer hire mercenaries? High ratings indicate a continual need. Low ratings suggest that new openings are rare.

PAY: How good is the pay? High values suggest aboveaverage pay scales, Low values indicate low pay or, possibly, a history of non-compliance with contracts.

CONDITIONS: What are the usual conditions under which mercenaries work? High values suggest access to R&R facilities, service on an Earthlike world, or "soft tickets" such as ceremonial guard duty or providing escort for nobles at court. A low rating means poor or unpleasant conditions, such as duty at an isolated outpost or in a hostile environment.

As always, contract openings, pay, and conditions under the same employer may vary tremendously depending on circumstances or on changes unreported to BattleTechnology since the basic research was done. These code values are intended as guidelines in the presentation of a reader's service. BattleTechnology assumes no responsibility, written or implied, for damages, costs, or casualties incurred through service to mercenary employers screened in this column.

The Dragonslayers 'Mech Mercenary Unit


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